Where To Stay in Brisbane → Best Hotels and Apartments

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is one of Australia’s greatest secrets.

I am proud to say that I lived in Brisbane city for over two years and it is such a dear place to me, that I would like everyone to love it as much as I do! This is why I have decided to write this article, as I consider myself an (almost) local!

The capital of the Australian sunshine region makes for a perfect base for day trips such as the Gold Coast, Byron Bay or Fraser Island. You can escape to the beach, the rainforest or the mountain, which are literally one hour away from Brisbane.

But now, you must be wondering where to stay in Brisbane for the perfect stay, right? In this neighborhood guide, you will find the best areas in the city for different interests as well as the best accommodation options for any budget! From hotels to apartments, there is for sure the right choice for your needs here, but don’t wait too long to book it, places sell out fast!

PRO TIP: Do not get too comfortable because this part of the country is ever-growing, so Brisbane hotels sell out fast! That’s why you should book your Brisbane hotel deals ASAP, I don’t want you to look for Gold Coast accommodation instead! 😉

So without further ado, let’s get straight into it! Here is my hand-picked list of the best accommodations in Brisbane, Australia, all of them have great reviews and are located in a good area:

If you are in a hurry…

If you need to take a quick decision and book immediately, I got your back, check this list with the best hotels located in central Brisbane:

• Best luxury hotel: W Brisbane
• Best mid-range hotel: Hyatt Regency Brisbane
• Best budget hotel: Amelia Boutique Hotel 

Which area should you choose?

Here’s a map to help you have a mental image of all the areas that I will be talking about in this post:

1. CBD – for first-timers 
2. Fortitude Valley – for nightlife
3. South Bank – for families
4. New Farm – the coolest area

1.  The CBD – where to stay in Brisbane for the first time

Brisbane’s Central Business District (CBD), as you can imagine, is the big and buzzing city center, often referred to as the heart of Brisbane, bordered by the Brisbane River. With so many landmarks, attractions like the iconic City Hall, museums (check out the Brisbane Museum) and galleries, the CBD has it all, which makes it the best neighborhood where to stay in Brisbane for first-time visitors!

If you want to explore some nature, culture and history while enjoying the shops and restaurants of a major city center, this is the spot for you!

The CBD’s central tip is called Gardens Point, for the beautiful City Botanic Gardens that you’ll find there, which flourish with unique exotic plants all year long. How cool it is to have 49 acres of green landscape featuring big trees and leafy shrubs right in the city center?

Talking about parks, if you love them you cannot miss the stunning Roma Street Parkland, an oasis of designer gardens and sprawling lawns, where you can have picnics, run, walk or just enjoy the sightseeings. 

Brisbane CBD is relatively quiet compared to other parts of the city in terms of nightlife, and offers a lot of great accommodation options for any budget to enjoy the chill vibe of the area… let’s take a look together!

Luxury (US$230 and up)

• W Brisbane – Here’s another excellent place where to stay in Brisbane for luxury! They have a wonderful view of the South Bank, Brisbane River and the Brisbane Wheel! Its originality and quirky design are stunning and this is probably one of the best hotels in the city, if not the whole region!
• Brisbane Marriott Hotel – In my opinion, this is one of the best luxury hotels in the city! Marriott Brisbane is the perfect classical luxurious hotel. They’ve got rooms with a view of the Story Bridge and it also has easy access to the New Farm Riverwalk, Queen Street Mall, and the South Bank as well. Plus, it’s within walking distance to all the most important attractions in the city!

Middle-priced (US$100 – US$200) 

• Hyatt Regency Brisbane – Definitely one of the best hotels in the heart of the city, close to the South Bank! Located right opposite of Queen Street Mall, its location is arguably their strongest point. With an incredible rooftop swimming pool and excellent service, this is the perfect place to chill after strolling around the city and its shops!
• Treasury Brisbane – The décor, cleanliness and tidiness of this hotel are just perfect! Apart from that, add a tad of luxury and the location right in the Brisbane Central Business District and close to Brisbane River, and you’ll get the perfect Brisbane city accommodation.
• Meriton Suites – Are you seeking relaxation? Then this beautiful 5 stars hotel is what you’re looking for! Enjoy the view of the Brisbane river and skyline from the comfort of your room and chill in the indoor swimming pool after an intense day of visiting!

Budget (up to US$100)

• George Williams Hotel – 4 stars hotel located in the heart of the Brisbane Central Business District, just a 5-minute walk from all the shops of the famous Queen Street Mall. Enjoy the modern rooms equipped with all facilities, and start your day with a delicious free breakfast!
• Brisbane Quarters – Looking for a fun, cheap, boutique hostel in a great location? You’ve found your spot here right in the heart of the CBD in this chic modern hostel with the choice between dorms and private rooms. 

Things to do in Brisbane CBD: 

• Have a stroll around the City Botanic Gardens
• Visit the inspiring Museum of Brisbane!
• Spend your money shopping at Queen Street Mall
• Leave the busy Brisbane for a full-day tour of the stunning North Stradbroke Island!

2. Fortitude Valley – the best neighborhood for nightlife

If you are looking for party, nightlife and fun 7 days a week, I have good news for you, northeast of the city centre you’ll find the first dedicated entertainment district in Australia: Fortitude Valley. In this vivacious neighborhood, you’ll find any kind of option for a great night out: from eclectic bars to cozy pubs, low-key bars, rooftop lounges, and world-class clubs.

Fortitude Valley is also home to plenty of good live music, played either by amazing street performers (the type of things I personally love finding in a new city) to famous innovative DJs hosted in the clubs!This vibrant neighborhood is probably the most diverse area in Brisbane, hosting funky boutique shops, casual eateries and the huge Chinatown, where you can experience a wide variety of Asian cultures, including Korean, Thai and Vietnamese, and, of course, delicious food!

Since the area has grown a lot over the past years, it’s receiving more and more visitors, which means that accommodation here can be a bit pricy compared to the rest of Brisbane, so better hurry up to book a spot in advance, you can find some good deals!

Luxury (US$200 and up)

• The Calile Hotel – Wondering where to stay in Fortitude Valley for the best luxury stay? You found it! This stunning hotel will offer you a rooftop outdoor pool from where you can gaze at the best city views and a great location with easy access to all the most important attractions in the city!
• Ovolo The Valley – Welcome in an oasis of color and art, located in the heart of Fortitude Valley and inspired by the eclectic vibe of the neighborhood. This luxurious hotel features a rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Fortitude Valley surroundings, a sauna, and a well-equipped fitness centre!

Middle-priced (US$100- US$160)

• Sage Brisbane – This beautiful Brisbane accommodation will give you all the city vibes at a really affordable price. Located in a central location in James St, Fortitude Valley, super close to the New Farm Riverwalk, this is probably one of the most famous boutique hotels in Brisbane!
• Limes Boutique Hotel – Be ready to be amazed by this modern boutique hotel located in the vibrant Fortitude Valley… Swim and relax in one of the 2 rooftop pools and have a fresh delicious breakfast to start your day in the best way! 

Budget (up to US$80)

• Amelia Boutique Hotel – Set in the heart of Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, 250 m from Chinatown and a range of bars, restaurants and nightclubs, this hotel will offer you an awesome location, comfy rooms and great value for price!
• Kookaburra Inn – Take advantage of the hotel’s great location at only a 13-minute walk from both the Brisbane River, and enjoy the spacious rooms with access to an outdoor terrace, a shared kitchen and lounge areas.

Things to do in Fortitude Valley 

• Try Korean, Thai and Vietnamese delicious food at China Town!
• Have some tasty bites at Winn Lane and Bakery Lane
• Head to The Pig and Whistle for trivia night in their beer garden!
• Taste some world-class wine at Gerard’s Bar
• Enjoy stunning views of Brisbane from The Elixir Rooftop Bar 
• Check out The Tivoli or The Triffid for amazing local live music! 

3. South Bank – where to stay in Brisbane with the family

South Bank is a relaxed neighborhood located in south Brisbane, characterized by a lengthy riverside boardwalk with lovely cafes, mouth-watering views and its inner city beach.

The laid-back vibe of the area and the many cultural activities that it offers, make it perfect for a family vacation! Here you’ll find attractions for every taste and age, from world-class museums to interesting art galleries, colorful markets and bars, and amazing dining spots.

In particular, South Bank is home to great artistic performances: singing, dancing, art exhibitions… and you can find all of them in the Queensland Cultural Centre, which dominates the Brisbane cultural scene, featuring indoor theaters and outdoor venues.

But let’s talk about one of the most important things: food (are you with me?). If when traveling you love to try as many typical dishes as possible, there is no better place than Fish Lane food hall, offering the most diverse options in all Australia, with its bars, cafes and restaurants! 

If you’re already seeing yourself in South Brisbane, check out the hotels below, all great options for different budgets!

Luxury (US$200 and up)

• Emporium Hotel South Bank – Experience a new standard of luxury with the accommodation, exceptional dining and exquisite events of this incredible hotel! Bask in the comfort of your luxurious suite, indulge at the bars and restaurants and soak up spectacular views from the rooftop terrace and infinity pool! 
• Rydges South Bank Brisbane – Find everything you need in this beautiful hotel located in South Brisbane: enjoy its prime location on Brisbane’s South Bank, wake up in your room with views over the Brisbane River, relax in the sauna or hot tub and do some activity in the fitness center!

Middle-priced (US$130 – US$160)

• Arise Ivy & Eve Apartments – The great news about not staying right in the city center is that you get an awesome view of the city’s skyline! Here, you’ll be able to enjoy the city views from the cozy jacuzzi. And after that, why not give a try at making your own healthy meal in their fully-equipped kitchen?
• Quest South Brisbane – The serviced apartment-style rooms of this hotel will offer you a relaxed and comfortable accommodation experience, perfect for short or long stays. Enjoy the favorable location only minutes to Brisbane’s CBD to visit Brisbane’s finest attractions, dining precincts, sporting and event venues!

Budget (up to US$130)

• Hillcrest Apartment Hotel – Part of the beloved South Brisbane neighborhood, this hotel is surrounded by some of the best dining, nightlife and sporting facilities in the city. Choose from lovely hotel rooms to apartments with big private balconies, perfect for a stay with the family!
• Courtyard South Bank – Modern and clean hotel with an ideal location within a short walk to the South Bank Parklands and public transport. Before beginning your day in South Brisbane, energize with a workout in the 24-hour fitness centre or swim in the indoor heated pool.

Things to do in South Bank: 

• Hop on a boat for an immersive river cruise tour!
• Try one of the great bars and restaurants in Fish Lane
• Attend a musical at Queensland Performing Arts Centre
• Check out a cool exhibition at the Queensland Art Gallery
• Go to the Birsbane Lyric Theater for some incredible opera or ballet
• See an exhibition at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre!

4. New Farms – the coolest place to stay

Located next to Fortitude Valley and just 2 kilometers east of Brisbane CBD, you’ll find the central neighborhood of New Farm, one of Brisbane’s oldest suburbs. This district has a particular old-world charm, coming from its decorated, Queenslander-style homes and charming buildings, leafy trees, and shady streets.

With its upmarket shopping, alternative dining and trendy bars, this residential area offer the perfect mix of relaxed and cool vibe! Boutique cafes, hip restaurants, cozy bakeries, eclectic events and cool independent boutiques are just a few of the things that you can experience in New Farm!

If you love green spaces, New Farm Park is definitely a must for you, one of the oldest and largest parks (of 37 acres) in all of Brisbane, with enough amusements to keep all the family entertained, and the best place to have a picnic under the trees! Otherwise, the New Farm Powerhouse is just next to the park, a cultural arts mecca hosting live arts, weekend farmers markets and even a seasonal moonlight cinema!

Luxury (US$150 and up)

• Spicers Balfour Hotel – Award-winning boutique hotel located just 7 minutes from the Brisbane city center. Enjoy the luxurious rooms featuring 1940’s art-deco style with a separate lounge area, start your day with a breakfast on the veranda and finish it with a cocktail on the rooftop bar with views of the city!
• Aotea Art Deco Oasis – Stay in a piece of New Farm history! Located in a super quiet area, this recently renovated house is well designed and comfortably decorated with everything you need! The perfect base to work or relax, stroll to the Riverwalk, and enjoy the famous local cafes!

Middle-priced (US$100 – US$140)

• Edward Lodge – Stay in this elegant and stylish 1912 property, nestled in the heart of New Farm near the beautiful Brisbane River. This boutique hotel will make you immediately relax with its calming color palette and the leafy green tree-lined streets as soon as you step outside the door!
• The Coffee Loft –  Great eclectic apartment with a funky vibe, illuminated by the sunlight, perfect for a tranquil stay with friends or family. Start the day with coffee, just a staircase below, or enjoy brunch at James Street cafes only moments away. 

Budget (up to US$80)

• Ellie’s Guest House – Situated in the beautiful suburb of New Farm, the family-run Ellie’s Guest House offers quiet and peaceful accommodation in a big heritage house. Have a comfortable stay in your fully equipped room with all facilities, to feel exactly like at home!
• Heart of New Farm – Have a cozy stay in one of the rooms of this fun hostel, with access to many shared facilities like the kitchen and laundry. Relax in the beautiful verandah and garden area, where you can enjoy some interaction with other guests!

Things to do in New Farms:

• Have a walk on New Farm riverfront walkway
• Have a picnic with the family at the New Farm Park!
• Attend a live music show or festival at the New Farm Powerhouse!
• Have a sweet treat at the end of the day at the New Farm Confectionery
• Try some traditional delicious pasta and pizzas at Little Italy!

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👑 Luxury price:	$160
💵 Mid Range:	$100
🛏️ Budget:	$70
📍 Best neighborhood:	Central Business District
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	W Brisbane
💵 Mid-range hotel:	Hyatt Regency Brisbane
👛 Best budget hotel:	George Williams Hotel

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BONUS 1: Best apartments in Brisbane

Are you wondering where to stay in Brisbane so you can enjoy a homey feeling? Or maybe you love your independence? Do you usually get a bit tired of eating out when traveling, and sometimes crave a bit of a homemade feeling?

I get you; I sometimes feel the same way when traveling! I enjoy eating out but I love having the freedom to cook at home. That’s why, when traveling, I love staying in apartments!

When booking an apartment, you gain independence and, sometimes, this is also great for saving money as you don’t have to splurge in overpriced meals every single time!

This is exactly why I created this list of Brisbane city apartments, which you can find below:

Luxury (US$160 and up)

• Adina Aparthotel – Their reception is like if you’ve stepped back in time, in an amazing kind of way. Staying here will really make you feel like a queen, and the staff is so friendly and attentive that you’ll definitely love it there! The apartments are so cozy and luxurious that long-term guests are the daily bread here, and that’s always a great sign!

Middle-priced (US$100 – US$160)

• Alcyone Residences – If you need an energy boost after lots of traveling or a place to call home for a few days, do not hesitate to stay here! This apartment complex has all the amenities to make you feel at home and you can also take a day off from the sightseeing and try out the gym and outdoor swimming pool! The central location is a great bonus!
• Arise Ivy & Eve Apartments – The great news about not staying right in the city center is that you get an awesome view of the city’s skyline! Here, you’ll be able to enjoy the city views from the cozy jacuzzi. And after that, why not give a try at making your own healthy meal in their fully-equipped kitchen?

Budget (up to US$80)

It is definitely possible to stay in a low-budget accommodation whilst enjoying the comforts of having the whole place to yourself!

• Rydge Aparthotel – Located in Spring Hill, a Brisbane suburb right next to the CBD, this apartment is a wonderful choice for your stay in Brisbane. Plus, its low price and sophisticated vibe make it one of the best cheap apartments in Brisbane! Tired of walking around and don’t feel like eating out? Just use your super convenient kitchenette!

BONUS 2: Best hotels near Brisbane Airport

Located just 30 min away from the city center, Brisbane Airport amounts more than 20 million passengers per year, which makes it the third biggest airport in Australia!

Chances are you’re landing there or maybe you’ll take a flight somewhere else! Therefore, staying close to Brisbane Airport (BNE) is something you might want to do if your flight is at a strange time of the day.

Keep reading and you’ll find out below! Here’s my list of the best hotels near Brisbane airport:

Luxury (US$160 and up)

• Comfort Inn & Suites – Wondering where to stay in Brisbane near the airport and enjoy some luxury as well? I got you! If your flight is early in the morning or you arrive late at night, why not stay at the luxurious 5-star hotel? You can also cool off in their outdoor swimming pool; plus, dinner is served at their yummy on-site restaurant!
• Ascot Budget Inn – Another highly recommended option is Novotel Brisbane Airport Hotel. With similar prices to the one above, this place provides you with an outstanding experience and all the necessary amenities. You can have access to a free continental breakfast every day and an airport shuttle!

Middle-priced (US$100 – US$130)

• Ibis Airport – This place is a perfect middle-priced option! It’s super nice and homey – that’s one of the reasons why the guests keep coming back! If you don’t carry much luggage you can even walk to the domestic departures part of the airport.
• Novena Palms Motel – Providing a free airport shuttle, this motel is a fantastic choice for those that want to leave the airport behind but are not ready to make the commute to the city. With the coziest beach vibes, this accommodation even provides dinner; guests love their Indian menu!

Budget (up to US$100)

• Airport Clayfield Motel – Wondering where to stay in Brisbane close to the airport for a small rate? The mote is just a 7-minute drive to the airport and you can arrange pick-up if you request it beforehand. Breakfast is included and the lovely staff will make your stay unforgettable!
• Ascot Budget Inn & Residences – Who said that you couldn’t stay in a sophisticated place for a fraction of the price? This hotel shows us that it is possible to enjoy a luxurious experience even if your budget is low. Plus, it’s located in one of Brisbane’s most expensive suburbs, conveniently close to the airport!

Frequently Asked Questions about Brisbane

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have reached the end of this very well-researched article, if I may say so myself! 😉

In the article above I have selected some of the best accommodation where to stay in Brisbane, from hotels to the most incredible apartments, as well as b&b in Brisbane. So, hopefully, by now you already know where to stay in Brisbane and I have made your life much easier! But if you still have some doubts, here are my favorite top choices, with a central location and great reviews:

• Brisbane Marriott Hotel – One of the best luxury hotels in the city, offering rooms with a view of the Story Bridge and located within walking distance to all the most important attractions in the city!
• Treasury Brisbane –  Enjoy this luxury accommodation right in the Brisbane Central Business District and close to Brisbane River, where you’ll get the perfect value for price!

If you’re heading to Brisbane, make sure to check out my article about Top things to do in Brisbane, where I explain the best things to do in the “city of sun” from a wannabe local perspective!

As Australian tourism grows, Brisbane is earning its name in the travel world, which means that it’s a destination with a rapidly growing popularity rate and accommodations are better booked in advance.

In short, do not waste any time and book your hotel as soon as possible, so you can get the cheapest accommodation deals! You’ve got plenty of choices above!

I hope your Brisbane trip will be as unforgettable as mine was!

If you have any doubt at all or just would like to say hi, drop me a comment below and I’ll be happy to help you!

Happy travels!

Arantxa

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